UK supports UAE's Expo 2020

The UK on Tuesday voiced support for the file of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the race for hosting the Expo 2020. British Foreign Minister William Hague said in a news release that he trusted the strength and ability of the UAE to provide a congenial atmosphere for reaching a large and varied international audience. He said: "We are also convinced that holding Expo 2020 at a time of great change in the region would send a positive signal to the world that this is a region of dynamism, innovation and vast human potential." He said the UK has distinguished relations with the UAE in political, economic, defensive and tourist fields, noting that more than 100,000 British citizens live and work in the UAE. Hague added that the Expo 2020 and its prelude would provide great opportunities to further strengthen the relationship between the two countries. The Expo 2020 host nation will be announced in November, with rivals including the UAE, Russia, Brazil, Turkey and Thailand. The Expo, held every five years, is a key meeting point for global community to share innovations and make progress on issues of international importance such as the global economy, sustainable development and improved quality of life for the worlds population.